Offensive revival: Highest scoring season in 26 years

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James
May 1, 2022 (1:47)

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Across the board, it was a historic season in the NHL. The highest-scoring season in 26 years will finish with an average of 6.3 goals-per-game equaling the 1995-96 campaign. Eight players (Connor McDavid, Jonathan Huberdeau, Johnny Gaudreau, Leon Draisaitl, Kirill Kaprizov, Auston Matthews, Steven Stamkos and Matthew Tkachuk) collected 100+ points for the first time since there were 12 in that same 95-96 season.

Four players (Matthews, Draisaitl, Chris Krieder and Alex Ovechkin) scored 50+ goals, the most in 16 years. There were four combined 50 goal scorers over the previous seven seasons.

17 players scored 40+ goals, the most since 18 in 95-96. 51 players scored 30+ goals, the most in 28 years (55 in 1993-94). 26 teams had at least one 30 goal scorer, the second highest total behind 2005-06 (27).

137 players scored 20+ goals, the most in NHL history (previous high: 135 in 1980-81). That includes 40 players who hit the mark for the first time.

102 hat tricks were scored, the most in 29 years (112 in 1992-93). They were scored by 84 different players, the most in 40 years and tied for second-most in NHL history (86 in 1981-82 and 84 in 1980-81).

There also were 64 defensemen with at least 30 points, the most in league history.

The Florida Panthers became the highest-scoring team (340 GF) in 26 years (Pittsburgh: 362 GF in 1995-96).

Despite all that scoring, there was still incredible goaltending being done, particularly in New York where Igor Shesterkin had a historic season.

So do we think that scoring will just continue to rise or will we see a leveling out going forward? If you like offense, this year's NHL was your dream. We'll have to see if the playoffs follow suit or if the goaltending will prevail. One thing is certain though, it's a fun time to be a hockey fan.